Kane-roads battle back in court

Attorneys representing Kane County and environmental groups appeared in federal court Monday to argue a long-running dispute about roads in Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument.

In summer 2003, Kane County removed more than 30 government signs prohibiting motor-vehicle traffic.

Two years later, the county posted its own signs on hundreds of routes, declaring the roads open for off-road and other vehicles.

The Wilderness Society, Southern Utah Wilderness Alliance and Earthjustice sued in 2005. U.S. District Judge Tena Campbell heard arguments about whether the county exceeded its authority.

"The Constitution does not permit local government to override" federal law, said Ed Zukoski, an attorney for the groups.

At stake, he said, are "some of the most spectacular lands in the United States."

Shawn Welch, representing Kane County, said there still are unresolved questions about which roads may or may not be affected.

He said the remoteness of some portions of the monument makes access necessary.

"It's really that part that makes the roads in the monument so important," Welch said.

Campbell did not make a decision Monday.